Jacksonville in September

September weather, activities, events & insider tips

September Weather in Jacksonville

32°C (89°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

127 mm (5.0 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is September Right for You?

Advantages

Hurricane season typically calms by mid-September - fewer weather disruptions than July-August with clearer skies for outdoor activities
Shoulder season pricing kicks in after Labor Day - hotel rates drop 25-40% compared to summer peak, with better availability at premium properties
Perfect weather for beach activities - ocean temperature reaches annual peak at 27°C (81°F), warmest and most comfortable for swimming
Local events season begins - college football starts, fall festivals launch, and cultural calendar becomes active again after summer lull

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms occur 12-15 days per month, typically 2pm-5pm - plan indoor activities during peak storm hours
Peak humidity makes outdoor activities feel 5-7°C (9-13°F) hotter than actual temperature - early morning is essential for hiking or cycling
Hurricane season continues through November - while rare, September storms can still develop requiring flexible travel plans

Best Activities in September

Early Morning Beach and Water Sports

September offers Jacksonville's warmest ocean temperatures at 27°C (81°F) with calmer seas as hurricane season wanes. Morning hours (6am-11am) provide perfect conditions before afternoon storms roll in. Surfing conditions are optimal with consistent swells and fewer crowds than summer months.

Booking Tip: Book water sports through certified beach operators 3-5 days ahead. Morning sessions (6am-11am) cost 20% less than peak summer rates, typically $40-80 per person. Reference booking section below for current surf lessons and kayak rentals.

Downtown Riverwalk and Cultural District Tours

September's shoulder season means fewer crowds at museums and galleries, with comfortable early morning and evening temperatures for walking tours. The St. Johns River offers perfect conditions for riverboat cruises with clearer visibility as summer haze clears.

Booking Tip: Walking tours run most frequently in September as weather stabilizes. Book 1-2 weeks ahead for weekend tours, typically $25-45 per person. Evening tours (5pm-7pm) offer cooler temperatures after afternoon storms pass.

Timucuan Ecological Preserve Kayaking

September offers ideal conditions for exploring salt marshes and tidal creeks with calmer weather patterns. Wildlife viewing peaks as migratory birds begin arriving, and cooler morning temperatures make 2-3 hour paddles comfortable. Water levels are optimal after summer rains.

Booking Tip: Reserve guided eco-tours 7-10 days ahead through licensed outfitters. Tours typically cost $55-75 per person including equipment. Morning departures (7am-9am) offer best wildlife viewing and comfortable temperatures before humidity peaks.

Amelia Island Day Trips

September provides perfect conditions for exploring historic Fernandina Beach with comfortable temperatures for walking tours and ideal beach weather. Fewer summer crowds mean better access to popular restaurants and attractions, while ocean conditions remain excellent for swimming.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Jacksonville typically cost $85-120 per person including transportation. Book 10-14 days ahead for weekend departures. Tours combining historic district walks with beach time work perfectly with September's weather patterns.

St. Augustine Historic District Excursions

September offers ideal weather for exploring America's oldest city, located 1 hour south of Jacksonville. Cooler mornings and evenings make walking tours comfortable, while afternoon indoor activities (museums, shops) provide perfect storm shelter. Tourist crowds diminish significantly after Labor Day.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours from Jacksonville typically range $95-140 per person. Book 2 weeks ahead for popular weekend departures. Combination tours including trolley rides and walking segments work best with September's variable weather patterns.

Craft Beer and Food Scene Tours

September marks the launch of fall beer releases and food festivals throughout Jacksonville. Cooler evening temperatures make brewery hopping and food truck gatherings more comfortable. Local harvest season brings fresh ingredients to restaurants and farmers markets.

Booking Tip: Food and brewery tours typically cost $65-95 per person including tastings. Book 1 week ahead for weekend tours. Evening tours (6pm-9pm) offer best weather conditions after afternoon storms clear. See current options in booking section below.

September Events & Festivals

Early to mid September

Jacksonville Jaguars NFL Season Opener

September marks the start of NFL season with home games at TIAA Bank Stadium. Game days transform downtown with tailgating, live music, and packed restaurants. Even non-football fans enjoy the electric atmosphere and community energy.

First Friday of September

Neptune Beach Art Walk

Monthly art walk featuring local galleries, street performers, and outdoor vendors along Neptune Beach. September's pleasant evening weather makes this first-Friday event particularly enjoyable with comfortable temperatures for strolling.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket - afternoon storms last 30-45 minutes and happen 40% of days, but clear quickly

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 9 and reflects strongly off water and sand

Moisture-wicking shirts - 78% humidity makes cotton feel sticky, synthetic blends dry faster

Comfortable waterproof walking shoes - sudden downpours create puddles on downtown streets

Lightweight long pants - evening temperatures can drop to 24°C (75°F), plus mosquito protection

Portable umbrella - afternoon storms are brief but intense, better than waiting them out

Insect repellent with DEET - September mosquitoes are active, especially near water areas

Light sweater for air conditioning - restaurants and museums keep indoor temps at 22°C (72°F)

Waterproof phone case - essential for beach and kayaking activities

Electrolyte supplements - high humidity and heat require extra hydration support

Insider Knowledge

Schedule outdoor activities before 11am or after 6pm - local residents avoid midday heat and you'll have beaches and trails more to yourself

September storm patterns are predictable - download weather radar app and watch for 2pm-5pm buildups, they clear quickly and leave cooler evenings

Restaurant prices drop after Labor Day while quality remains high - many establishments offer fall menu previews and happy hour specials to attract locals

Public beach access is significantly easier in September - parking at Jacksonville Beach and Neptune Beach that's impossible in summer becomes readily available

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning beach days for 1pm-4pm when afternoon storms typically hit - locals know to beach before noon or after 5pm

Packing only summer clothes - September evenings can be 8°C (14°F) cooler than daytime highs, especially with air conditioning

Booking accommodations at summer rates - wait until after Labor Day when shoulder season pricing begins, saving 25-40% on hotels